Outdoor dining is BACK this summer in Downtown Syracuse!  No matter what you’re in the mood for, we can guarantee that there’s a place on this list for you.  Syracuse boasts cultural cuisine of all kinds! The food scene in Central New York is truly exquisite, there are so many well-known and trending restaurants that you just have to try.  Whether you’re looking for a date night spot, grabbing a quick bite for lunch, taking the family out to eat, or just going out for a drink with friends, there are so many outdoor dining options here to choose from, let’s take a look:

 

Trending in Syracuse

Dinosaur Bar-B-Que

If you live in Syracuse and you've never been to Dino, do you really live in Syracuse?  During the summer, taste their iconic BBQ style food and sit outside in the sun or shade! This is one of five stops on Syracuse's section of the Upstate Eats Trail. Click the link to see if this foodie-road trip is for you. 

 

The York

An industrial-chic seafood experience with a raw bar, and you can even experience it all outside at this classy Armory Square establishment.

Funk n' Waffles

Get some fresh air and enjoy live music, this joint that serves mouth-watering waffle-based dishes!

Oh My Darling

Sit outside with friends, enjoy a fun summer cocktail, and delight in this American comfort food (with a twist)!

The Salt City Market

Check out a diverse array of cuisine and creative coffee concoctions available in this food hall style market.  The giant, colorful murals and outdoor seating are a Syracuse highlight during the summer months.

 

Emerald Cocktail Kitchen

First opened in 2021, this is Syracuse's first official rooftop bar!  Located on Tipp Hill, just on the outskirts of downtown, this 3-floor bar has fun cocktails, delicious eats, and a breathtaking view of the Syracuse skyline.

 

LM Social

This restaurant boasts the largest outdoor dining patio in Armory Square!  Check out their unique dishes, drink menu, and immaculate vibes this summer!

 

Zesty Mexican Flavors

XO Taco

Who doesn't love a taco?  Sit under string lights and munch on one, or two, and enjoy other tasty Mexican dishes!

 

Margaritas Mexican Cantina

A great place for margarita nights with your besties, or to share a meal with family!  Eat indoors in their artful, bohemian inspired dining room or take it outside during the summer months.

Alto Cinco

One of Westcott Street's finest, sit outside and indulge in a summer cocktail at Alto Cinco. Try their enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and other delicious Mexican dishes.

 

Fabulous Lunch Locales

Modern Malt

Shaded outdoor seating and a fun modern twist on a diner-inspired menu, don't forget to play giant Jenga and other lawn games available during your meal!

The Fish Friar

If you're a seafood lover, this one's for you!  Fish Friar even serves its fresh, New England Coast caught dishes outdoors with a nice breeze in the summer.

 

Board and Bar Charcuterie

There's something for everyone on a charcuterie board, and plenty of charcuterie board options to choose from at this new restaurant!  This is a snacker's dream.

Cafe Blue

Another new lunch spot right on the edge of downtown located at the inner harbor, the beautifully decorated Cafe Blue has a wide variety to choose from!  Sit outside and enjoy an iced coffee, pastries of all kinds, and a brunch inspired menu. 

 

Italian Alfresco

Apizza Regionale

Wood-fired pizza, pasta, salads, summer cocktails and other authentic Italian cuisine that you can enjoy on their greenery-filled patio under beautiful string lights.

 

Pastabilities

Try out creative pasta dishes alfresco in the heart of Armory Sqaure, and don't forget to bring home a loaf of daily bread!

 

Francesca's

This restaurant will truly transport you to the motherland, and the outdoor patio has a beautiful trellis and fireplace to enjoy in the summer months.

 

Bars, Pubs, and Even More Beer

The Hops Spot

Sip on a drink from the draft list, or a cocktail at this burger bar and hang with friends in the atmosphere of Armory Square.

 

Kitty Hoynes

Dine in the sidewalk seating outside of this historic Syracuse bar whose menu has several Irish and Guiness inspired dishes!

 

The Evergreen

Enjoy American pub fare and craft beer outdoors in downtown Syracuse. The Evergreen focuses on using as many locally-sources ingredients as possible.

Maxwells

Right in Hanover square, dine at Maxwell's patio and enjoy quality craft burgers and beers.

Press Room Pub

Take your meal outside at this rustic feeling Syracuse pub and enjoy American inspired cuisine!

Shaughnessy's Irish Pub

Home of the coldest draft beers in Downtown Syracuse, eat outside at this sports pub inspired by the owner's long line of Irish setters! 

 

Wolff's Biergarten

Savor the taste of this authentic German food and sip on a bier at this biergarten's outdoor tables.  A perfect spot for summer birthdays, you might just get a free boot!

 

Visit Syracuse and Eat

After sampling the local cuisine, one thing we can count on, is you'll be back for seconds! With so many outdoor dining options to try this summer make sure you share your experience. Follow us on Instagram @VisitSyraucse and be sure to tag us as well as hashtag #VisitSyr for a chance to have your food adventure shared across our platform. Who's hungry?

Explore Syracuse, NY this summer